As vaping has become a mainstream nicotine delivery system, a growing number of women of childbearing age use e-cigarettes — some switching from smoking, others starting directly. The CDC estimates that 1.8-2.5% of pregnant women in the US report using e-cigarettes during pregnancy, though underreporting likely makes the real number higher.

The critical problem is one of perception. A 2025 survey found that nearly 40% of pregnant women incorrectly believe that e-cigarettes do not contain nicotine. This misconception leads some women to continue vaping during pregnancy, believing it to be safe — or at least safer than smoking. The evidence says otherwise.

This guide reviews the most recent peer-reviewed evidence on vaping during pregnancy, with every claim rated by evidence confidence level. For a broader look at vaping's direct health effects on the user, see our vaping vs smoking health comparison.